Richie Porte will return to racing at the Japan Cup Cycle Road Race criterium and road race this weekend.

“We are really happy to see Richie Porte back at the start line for the first time since his Tour de France crash. Although we are lining up at the last race of the season, the Japan Cup Cycle Road Race will be a good chance for Richie to get back into the racing rhythm before he starts a solid off season. We also have Danilo Wyss and Michael Schär racing, and Martin Elmiger who will race for the last time before he retires. Rounding out the team is stagiaire Bram Welten who will make his debut at the Japan Cup Road Race,” Sports Director Fabio Baldato explained.

“The riders will test their legs first on Saturday at the criterium before the road race on Sunday. The Japan Cup Cycle Road Race is always an unpredictable race but we will line up motivated for a good result in the last race of the season.”

Porte is excited to end his season in Japan.

“I’m really looking forward to racing at the Japan Cup Cycle Road Race this year. Not only is it a chance for me to get another race day in the legs before the end of the season, but it’s also my first opportunity to race at the Japan Cup Cycle Road Race since 2013,” Porte said.

“The Japanese fans are really incredible so it’s always a great atmosphere at the race. I can definitely say it’s one of my favorite races. Given I haven’t raced since July, I’m not going in with any expectations. I’m just happy to be racing again this year before my focus turns to the 2018 season.”